Chemistry
- Sodium sulfate (hexahydrate form) occurs as large, colorless, odorless,
crys­tals or white crystalline powder. It will effloresce in dry air and
partially dissolve in its own water of crystallization at about 33°C. 1
gram is soluble in about 2.5 ml of water.

Pharmacology
- When given orally, sodium sulfate acts as a saline cathartic (draws
water into small intestine). Sodium sulfate is considered to be the most
effective saline cathartic on a molar basis. Sulfates also react with a
variety of cations to form non-absorbable com­pounds, which may explain
its efficacy in reducing copper loads and to reduce gut cal­cium.

Uses/Indications
- Sodium
sulfate is used as a saline cathartic, primarily in food animals.

Pharmacokinetics
- Sodium sulfate is not appreciably absorbed from the GI tract and thereby
acts a saline cathartic. Sodium may be absorbed however, after exchanging
with other cations.

Contraindications/Precautions
- Saline cathartics should not be used in dehydrated ani­mals. Because of
the drug’s high sodium content, it should be used with caution in patients
with severe CHF or in patients otherwise susceptible to sodium retention.

Sodium sulfate (hexahydrate)
is available from chemical supply houses.

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